s a pediatrician, I spend my days knee-deep in stuffed animals, superhero band aids, and the occasional existential crisis (courtesy of teenagers, of course). Lately, one name keeps popping up in these existential chats: Olivia Rodrigo.
Now, I’m not here to dissect her latest album or analyze her fashion choices (although, those outfits are fire). What I am here to talk about is the impact her music has on the emotional landscape of teenagers, and how it can be a springboard for crucial conversations about mental health.
Let’s face it, adolescence is a emotional rollercoaster. One minute you’re on top of the world, the next you’re drowning in a sea of teenage angst. Olivia’s music captures this perfectly, with lyrics that resonate with the heartbreak, loneliness, and self-discovery that many teens experience.
But here’s the thing: while her music might make you want to bury yourself under a pillow and blast “All Too Well” on repeat (trust me, I’ve been there), it can also be a powerful tool for opening up conversations about mental health.
Think about it. Discussing the emotions in her songs can be like cracking open a locked door to your own emotional world. It allows teens to see that they’re not alone in their struggles, and that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even down sometimes.
And guess what? Feeling those things doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human. But just like Olivia belts out her emotions in her music, it’s important to find healthy ways to express your own. Talking to a therapist, counselor, or even a trusted adult can be a game-changer. They can help you navigate those confusing emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and become the emotional ninja you were always meant to be.
So, the next time you hear an Olivia Rodrigo song blasting from your teenager’s room, don’t just roll your eyes. Use it as an opportunity to connect, to talk about what they’re feeling, and to remind them that they’re not alone in this wonderful journey called life.
And hey, if they need a referral to a therapist, your friendly neighborhood pediatrician is always happy to help. After all, raising healthy, happy teenagers is what I do best (besides diagnosing ear infections and explaining the magic of puberty, of course).
Bonus points: If you’re looking for extra support, check out these resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
- The Jed Foundation: https://jedfoundation.org/
